A layover in Ilorin is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Ilorin International Airport sits just 70 minutes from the city center by Taxi / Ride-share, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Before You Step Outside ILR
A few things to sort out before you leave ILR:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Nigeria. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Ilorin takes about 70 minutes by Taxi / Ride-share. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is NGN. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Exploring Ilorin on a Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Ilorin, two standouts are:
- Ilorin Central Mosque — A peaceful stop that offers a break from the rush of travel.
- Emir’s Palace, Ilorin — History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at ILR, check out Main Terminal Waiting Area or Airport Souvenir Kiosk to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
- In the city: D’La Vogue Restaurant and Domino’s Pizza Ilorin are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Ilorin.
- At the airport: Airport Refreshment Stand and Terminal Canteen will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Getting from ILR to Ilorin
From ILR, the Taxi / Ride-share gets you to Ilorin in around 70 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 90 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi / Ride-share offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Ilorin:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $4 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $19 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Bag Storage Near ILR
Specific locker facilities at ILR aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Ilorin itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at ILR, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Ilorin itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Nigeria that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at ILR.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Ilorin genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.